From Bedrooms To Billions
A little over 2 years ago I stumbled across an Indiegogo campaign that was raising funds for a documentary on the birth of the UK games industry. They already had an impressive list of interviewees lined up and the clips they'd released were very promising. It was clear that the producers had a deep respect for the subject and the people they were recording, and that they weren't setting out to create some cheesey fluff piece (unlike certain other productions). I coughed up more in backing "From Bedrooms" than all other crowdfunded campaigns I've contributed to combined. I had faith.
On Friday night I sat down to watch it and it did not disappoint. They nailed it. This is the best documentary on the games industry I've seen, and I consider it essential viewing for people already in the industry or those looking to get in. So much of what happens now has happened before - just patterns that repeat.
Of course, it won't mean as much people who weren't into the '80s UK game scene and may not be familiar with the names, but I think the interviewees are interesting/charming/funny enough that there's still plenty to enjoy.
Most importantly, the stories of these pioneers needs to be recorded before they're gone. It was an incredible period with many remarkable achievements.
This is a project that deserves to be supported, so go and order a copy (the Special Edition is worth it), and enjoy some wonderful anecdotes from some pretty amazing people who played a vital role in making games what they are today.